Review of Terms of Service

Post by **Abril Zacca** » 13 Jan 2023, 08:27

[Following is a volunteer review of "Terms of Service" by Craig W. Stanfill.]

5 out of 5 stars

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Terms of Service is a science fiction novel set far in the future, where society is under a totalitarian government ruled by AI. In this society, standing out as an individual is an inadequate and selfish thing to do. As 4-year-olds, babies are separated from their mothers, and preferring one sex over the other when choosing partners is a disease that must be treated. These are only a few of the multiple rules or Terms of Service that one must follow.

Kim works for the Artificial Intelligence Company and tries to live her life following the regulations to avoid trouble with the AIs. She doesn’t agree with most of the rules, but she knows there is nothing she can do to change them, or so she thought. When a friend from her adolescent years reappears in her life, they go on a bicycle ride that is going to change Kim’s life forever, although that might not be a good thing; after all, standing out is not acceptable. Read Terms of Service by Craig W. Stanfill to find out more about Kim's journey.

It has been a while since I read a sci-fi book that had me this hooked. I genuinely couldn’t put the book down. The writing was amazing, and the plot was incredibly entertaining. I really enjoyed the many philosophical questions that this book presents; it leaves you reflecting on many subjects that affect our society today. Another thing I enjoyed about Terms of Service is the main character, Kim; although she wasn’t exactly likeable, I appreciated she tried to do the right thing every time considering the limitations the AI presented her with.

The only negative point I can think of is the amount of time it takes for the actual plot to occur; I would say half the book is world-building only. I honestly enjoyed it, but I can understand this may not be for everyone.

Considering the extensive world-building was enjoyable for me and I didn’t find any errors, therefore making the book exceptionally well edited, I give Terms of Service by Craig W. Stanfill five out of five stars. I recommend this book to anyone interested in a sci-fi story that has heavy world-building and leaves you reflecting on how we are as a society. The story contains minor profanity and describes various intimate relations; if you don’t enjoy this type of content, the book is not for you.

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Terms of Service
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Valeria Riveraa · Post by **Valeria Riveraa** » 23 Jan 2023, 11:10

I have heard, and watched movies about artificial intelligence. But I haven't come around to reading or even finding a book that talks about artificial intelligence. I guess I've come to the end of my search. The storyline sounds very interesting. I'm curious to know what happened after Kim's old friend returned. Great review!

Amy Luman · Post by **Amy Luman** » 23 Jan 2023, 15:44

I honestly want to know how so many reviewers come to the conclusion that Kim is female. I know he/she/they are referred to as she, but so is everyone else.

Abdulsabur Aisha · Post by **Abdulsabur Aisha** » 25 Jan 2023, 00:48

I am not a huge fan of sci-fi books, but I have come to realize that science and technology rule the world and we can shy away from it. More so, I could feel the uniqueness of this book from your review. Nice work!

Post by **Abril Zacca** » 03 Feb 2023, 19:42

Valeria Riveraa wrote: ↑23 Jan 2023, 11:10 I have heard, and watched movies about artificial intelligence. But I haven't come around to reading or even finding a book that talks about artificial intelligence. I guess I've come to the end of my search. The storyline sounds very interesting. I'm curious to know what happened after Kim's old friend returned. Great review!

I'm glad I could help and I hope you enjoy the book! thank you for commenting.

Post by **Abril Zacca** » 03 Feb 2023, 19:48

Amy Luman wrote: ↑23 Jan 2023, 15:44 I honestly want to know how so many reviewers come to the conclusion that Kim is female. I know he/she/they are referred to as she, but so is everyone else.

I can't speak for everyone but since English is not my first language I think I imagined Kim as a female because of the pronouns used to describe them. I think I will re read this book and try to pay attention as to why I assumed Kim's gender when it is never explicitly stated. Thank you for commenting and helping me to reflect upon this subject

Post by **Abril Zacca** » 03 Feb 2023, 19:50

Abu_Aisha1 wrote: ↑25 Jan 2023, 00:48 I am not a huge fan of sci-fi books, but I have come to realize that science and technology rule the world and we can shy away from it. More so, I could feel the uniqueness of this book from your review. Nice work!

Thank you for taking the time and commenting

SunVixen · Post by **SunVixen** » 20 Feb 2023, 07:10

Did they take little children away from their parents? Looks like a monstrous dystopia.
I like sci-fi, but I prefer books about aliens and space travel. However, thanks for the honest review.

Post by **Abril Zacca** » 21 Feb 2023, 08:02

SunVixen wrote: ↑20 Feb 2023, 07:10 Did they take little children away from their parents? Looks like a monstrous dystopia.
I like sci-fi, but I prefer books about aliens and space travel. However, thanks for the honest review.

Yes, it's only one of the horrible things that happen in this world. I also enjoy aliens and space travel. Thank you for commenting.